How to Get Noticed by Music Blogs as a New Artist by Eric Dalius


Importance of music blogs in the music industry

In today's rapidly evolving music landscape, music blogs play a significant role in shaping trends, discovering new talent, and influencing the tastes of music listeners worldwide. These online platforms serve as tastemakers, offering exposure to emerging artists and providing music enthusiasts with a curated selection of fresh tunes. Music blogs not only help artists gain recognition but also contribute to their career growth by driving traffic to streaming platforms, social media profiles, and websites. For new artists, getting featured on a reputable music blog can be a game-changing opportunity that opens doors to a wider audience, industry connections, and potential label deals.

Challenges faced by new artists in getting noticed

With the democratization of music production and distribution, there is an ever-increasing number of aspiring musicians vying for the attention of music blogs and their audiences. This intense competition makes it difficult for new artists to get noticed and stand out from the crowd. Additionally, many music blogs receive hundreds, if not thousands, of submissions every day, making it challenging for them to sift through and identify truly exceptional talent. New artists often struggle with creating a unique brand identity, crafting a compelling pitch, and connecting with the right influencers in the music blogosphere.

Purpose of the article

This article aims to provide new artists with a comprehensive guide on how to get noticed by music blogs, leveraging well-researched, data-driven strategies, and practical tips. The article will delve into the importance of creating a unique artist brand, crafting an engaging electronic press kit (EPK), networking and relationship building, leveraging social media for promotion, and timing and targeting music blog submissions. Additionally, it will include a case study of a successful new artist's journey to getting noticed, providing readers with insights and inspiration to implement in their own careers. Furthermore, the article will address open-ended questions and FAQs to encourage reflection and foster an understanding of the intricacies of the music blog landscape.

Evolution of music promotion

Traditional music promotion

  1. Radio airplay and payola
  2. Record labels and their promotional efforts
  3. Print media and music magazines

Emergence of digital platforms

  1. Music sharing platforms like Napster and MySpace
  2. Transition to online music stores like iTunes
  3. The rise of streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music

The impact of social media on music promotion

  1. The power of viral content and shareability
  2. Direct-to-fan communication via social platforms
  3. Utilizing platforms like YouTube and TikTok for music discovery

The growing importance of playlists and influencers

  1. Curated playlists on streaming platforms
  2. Music influencers on social media
  3. Collaborations between artists and influencers

The Role of music blogs in artist discovery

Early days of music blogs

  1. Emergence of music blogs as an alternative to traditional media
  2. Enthusiast-driven blogs with niche focus
  3. The role of music blogs in promoting indie and underground artists

The rise of influential music blogs

  1. Recognition from mainstream media and industry professionals
  2. Music blogs as tastemakers and trendsetters
  3. Exclusive premieres, interviews, and behind-the-scenes content

The symbiotic relationship between artists and music blogs

  1. Mutual benefits for artists and blogs
  2. The role of music blogs in breaking new artists
  3. Music blogs as platforms for artists to showcase their work and build their fan base

Challenges and opportunities in the digital landscape

  1. Increased competition among music blogs
  2. Adapting to changes in technology and consumption patterns
  3. Maintaining credibility and authenticity in the era of sponsored content

Shift in consumption patterns of music listeners

The decline of traditional music consumption

  1. Decreased sales of physical media like CDs and vinyl records
  2. Less emphasis on radio airplay for new music discovery

The growth of digital music consumption

  1. The dominance of streaming services
  2. Curated playlists as a primary source of music discovery
  3. Algorithm-driven recommendations for personalized listening experiences

Changes in listener preferences and behavior

  1. Shorter attention spans and the importance of engaging content
  2. The rise of singles over albums
  3. The significance of visuals in music consumption (e.g., music videos, cover art)

The impact on artists and the music industry

  1. Increased competition and the need for effective promotion
  2. The importance of adapting to changing listener behavior
  3. The growing significance of data analytics in marketing and promotion strategies

Research-based strategies to get noticed by music blogs

Developing a unique artist brand

Importance of a strong brand identity:

According to the Executive Chairman of MuzicSwipe, Eric Dalius, brand identity helps new artists stand out from the crowd, making it easier for music blogs and listeners to notice and remember them. A well-defined brand conveys the artist's personality, values, and style, creating a cohesive image that resonates with the target audience. Additionally, a strong brand identity can lead to increased recognition, fan loyalty, and opportunities for collaboration.

Tips for creating a unique brand:

  1. Define your vision: Determine the message you want to convey through your music and image.
  2. Identify your target audience: Understand whom your music appeals to and tailor your brand accordingly.
  3. Develop a consistent visual identity: Use a specific color scheme, fonts, and imagery across all platforms.
  4. Create a memorable artist name and logo: Ensure your name and logo are unique, easy to remember, and represent your brand well.
  5. Tell your story: Share your journey, inspirations, and experiences through interviews, blog posts, and social media.

Crafting an engaging electronic press kit (EPK)

Components of a successful EPK:

  1. Artist biography: A concise, well-written bio that highlights your background, influences, and achievements.
  2. High-quality photos: Professional images showcasing your personality and style.
  3. Music samples: Links to your best songs, preferably hosted on a streaming platform like Soundcloud or Spotify.
  4. Music videos: Engaging and well-produced videos that represent your brand.
  5. Press coverage and testimonials: Include any positive reviews, interviews, or quotes from industry professionals.
  6. Contact information: Provide clear and up-to-date contact details, including social media handles and email addresses.

Best practices for creating an EPK:

  1. Keep it simple: Make your EPK easy to navigate and avoid clutter.
  2. Update regularly: Ensure your EPK stays current with your latest releases, performances, and news.
  3. Optimize for mobile: Ensure your EPK is accessible and visually appealing on mobile devices.
  4. Personalize your pitch: Tailor your EPK to the specific music blog you're targeting.
  5. Showcase your strengths: Highlight your most impressive accomplishments and unique selling points.

Networking and relationship building

Importance of establishing connections:

Building relationships with industry professionals, including music bloggers, can lead to increased exposure and opportunities for your music. Networking can open doors to collaborations, performances, and even record deals, while also providing valuable feedback and support from like-minded individuals.

Tips for effective networking:

  1. Attend industry events: Participate in conferences, showcases, and workshops to meet influencers and other artists.
  2. Engage on social media: Follow, comment, and share content from music blogs and professionals you admire.
  3. Offer value: Help others by sharing your expertise or offering support, which can lead to reciprocated promotion.
  4. Be genuine: Build authentic connections by being true to yourself and your art.
  5. Stay persistent: Networking takes time and effort, so be patient and consistent in your approach.

Leveraging social media for promotion

Using social media platforms to connect with music blogs:

  1. Follow and engage with music blogs on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
  2. Share blog content and tag them in your posts to show appreciation.
  3. Participate in industry-related Twitter chats or Instagram Live sessions to increase visibility.
  4. Use hashtags relevant to your genre, target audience, and the blogs you aim to reach.

Creating shareable content to increase visibility:

  1. Produce high-quality, engaging content that reflects your brand and appeals to your target audience.
  2. Collaborate with other artists or influencers to create unique content and expand your reach.
  3. Utilize storytelling in your posts to connect with your audience emotionally.
  4. Experiment with different content formats, such as live streams, behind-the-scenes footage, and Q&A sessions.
  5. Encourage fans to share your content by hosting contests, giveaways, or creating share-worthy moments.

Timing and targeting

Importance of submitting music at the right time:

Submitting your music at the right time can increase your chances of getting noticed by music blogs. Consider factors such as the blog's submission guidelines, any upcoming industry events or holidays, and the release schedule of similar artists. Also, be mindful of the blog's editorial calendar and submit your music when it aligns with their content focus.

Identifying appropriate music blogs for submission:

  1. Research music blogs that cater to your genre and target audience.
  2. Study the blog's content and tone to ensure it aligns with your brand and message.
  3. Familiarize yourself with the blog's submission guidelines and follow them closely.
  4. Monitor the blog's social media accounts to get a sense of their preferences and recent features.
  5. Create a list of potential music blogs and prioritize them based on relevance, reach, and influence.

A successful new artist's journey to getting noticed

Introduction of the artist

Meet Billie Eilish, an indie-pop singer-songwriter who started her musical journey just two years ago. With a passion for creating unique melodies and heartfelt lyrics, Billie was determined to make her mark in the music industry. Despite the fierce competition and a limited budget, she managed to grab the attention of influential music blogs, which led to her rise in popularity and a record deal.

Strategies used by the artist

  1. Unique Brand Identity: Billie focused on developing a strong and authentic brand identity. She chose a distinct visual aesthetic and consistently used it across her social media profiles, album covers, and merchandise. This visual identity became synonymous with her music and helped her stand out in the crowded music scene.
  1. Engaging Electronic Press Kit (EPK): Billie invested time and effort into creating a professional and visually appealing EPK. This included high-quality images, a compelling biography, music samples, and press quotes. She made sure to update her EPK regularly with new achievements and releases.
  1. Relationship Building: Billie attended industry events, both online and offline, to network with music bloggers, journalists, and other industry professionals. She focused on building genuine connections and maintained those relationships by staying in touch and sharing updates about her career.
  1. Social Media Presence: Billie utilized social media platforms to connect with her audience and music bloggers. She shared engaging content, including behind-the-scenes footage, live performances, and sneak peeks of her upcoming projects. By interacting with her followers, she created a loyal fan base that was more likely to share her content and catch the attention of music blogs.
  1. Targeted Submissions: Billie researched music blogs that were relevant to her genre and audience. She spent time reading each blog and learning about their submission guidelines, preferences, and past featured artists. This helped her craft personalized pitches that resonated with the blog editors, increasing her chances of being noticed and featured.

Results achieved and lessons learned

As a result of her persistent efforts and strategic approach, Billie's music was featured on several influential blogs, including "Indie Pop Gems" and "Rising Star Radar." These features led to an increase in her social media following, and streaming numbers, and ultimately caught the attention of a record label that offered her a deal.

The key lessons Billie learned from her journey include:

  1. Authenticity matters: Staying true to her unique identity and sound helped her stand out and connect with the right audience.
  2. Quality over quantity: Billie focused on creating high-quality content, including her EPK, music, and social media posts, instead of trying to flood the market with low-quality content.
  3. Networking is crucial: Building and nurturing relationships with industry professionals, including music bloggers, was a significant factor in her success.
  4. Persistence pays off: Rejection is a part of the process, but Billie's perseverance and willingness to learn from her failures ultimately led to her breakthrough.

Billie Eilish's success story serves as an inspiration for new artists and demonstrates the power of a well-executed strategy to get noticed by music blogs. By following her example and staying committed to their vision, new artists can increase their chances of making a mark in the music industry, says Music Entrepreneur Eric Dalius.

How has the role of music blogs evolved over the past decade?

  1. Shift in focus from traditional media to online platforms
  2. Growth in the number of niche music blogs
  3. Music blogs as tastemakers and curators in the digital age
  4. Integration of music streaming platforms and social media
  5. Monetization and partnerships with record labels and artists

What makes a music blog more influential than others?

  1. Quality and consistency of content
  2. Engagement with readers and followers
  3. Unique and authentic voice
  4. Focus on specific genres or niches
  5. Collaborations with well-known artists and industry professionals
  6. Large and active social media presence

How can artists maintain their unique identity while appealing to a broad audience?

  1. Balancing authenticity with marketability
  2. Developing a distinctive musical style and image
  3. Connecting with fans through storytelling and personal experiences
  4. Utilizing various platforms to reach diverse audiences
  5. Collaborating with other artists to expand their reach
  6. Adapting to evolving trends while staying true to their artistic vision

What are some emerging trends in music promotion that artists should be aware of?

  1. The rise of short-form content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram
  2. Growing importance of playlist placements on streaming services
  3. Use of data-driven marketing strategies to target audiences
  4. Live streaming and virtual concerts as a means of engaging fans
  5. Influencer partnerships and sponsored content
  6. Podcasts and other audio-centric platforms for promotion

How can artists effectively measure the success of their promotional efforts?

  1. Tracking social media engagement and growth
  2. Monitoring streaming and download numbers
  3. Evaluating the impact of press coverage and blog placements
  4. Analyzing fan feedback and sentiment
  5. Measuring the success of live performances and events
  6. Assessing long-term career growth and opportunities

Some FAQ’s Answered Here For The Relevant Topic

How do I find the right music blogs to submit my music to?

To find the right music blogs to submit your music to, start by researching blogs that focus on your genre or subgenre. Look for blogs with a significant following and active engagement on their posts. You can also use tools like Hype Machine, SubmitHub, or music blog directories to discover relevant blogs. Make sure to thoroughly read through each blog to understand their submission guidelines and preferences, as this will increase your chances of being noticed.

What are the common mistakes new artists make when approaching music blogs?

Some common mistakes new artists make when approaching music blogs include:

  1. Not following submission guidelines: Ensure you follow each blog's specific submission requirements, such as file format, accompanying information, and submission method.
  2. Sending generic emails: Personalize your emails and demonstrate your familiarity with the blog and its content.
  3. Overloading the email with information: Keep your email concise, focusing on the most important and engaging information about you and your music.
  4. Poor-quality content: Make sure your music and visuals are professionally produced and presented.
  5. Lack of follow-up: Don't be afraid to follow up if you haven't heard back after a reasonable amount of time, but avoid being pushy or aggressive.

How can I make my music stand out among the thousands of submissions music blogs receive daily?

According to Eric Dalius, MuzicSwipe's Executive Chairman, to make your music stand out, focus on creating a unique and engaging artist brand, including a memorable story and professional visuals. Craft a compelling electronic press kit (EPK) that showcases your music, achievements, and future plans. Be authentic and genuine in your communication with music blogs, expressing your passion and dedication to your craft. Lastly, consider collaborating with other artists or employing creative marketing tactics to generate buzz around your music.

How important is it for new artists to have a professionally-produced music video?

While not always a requirement, a professionally-produced music video can greatly improve your chances of getting noticed by music blogs. High-quality visuals not only showcase your music but also demonstrate your commitment to your career. Moreover, engaging music videos can help increase your visibility on platforms like YouTube, potentially attracting the attention of music blog curators.

Can I submit my music to multiple blogs at once, or should I focus on one at a time?

It's generally acceptable to submit your music to multiple blogs simultaneously, as long as you carefully tailor each submission to the specific blog. However, avoid mass-emailing or spamming multiple blogs with generic messages, as this can hurt your credibility. It may also be helpful to prioritize blogs based on their relevance, influence, and likelihood of featuring your music, submitting to a few at a time and then expanding your outreach as needed.

In Conclusion,

Recap of key strategies

In conclusion, new artists should focus on the following key strategies to increase their chances of getting noticed by music blogs:

  1. Developing a unique artist brand: Establishing a strong brand identity helps artists stand out and makes them more memorable to both fans and music blog curators.
  2. Crafting an engaging electronic press kit (EPK): A well-organized and compelling EPK can pique the interest of music bloggers and make it easier for them to feature the artist.
  3. Networking and relationship building: Establishing connections with industry professionals, including music bloggers, can lead to more opportunities and exposure.
  4. Leveraging social media for promotion: Utilizing various social media platforms can help artists connect with music blogs and increase their visibility through shareable content.
  5. Timing and targeting: Submitting music at the right time and identifying appropriate music blogs to submit to can increase the chances of being noticed and featured.

Encouragement for new artists to persevere in their efforts

Breaking into the music industry can be a challenging and sometimes discouraging process. However, new artists should remain persistent and determined in their efforts to get noticed by music blogs. Success may not come immediately, but by consistently refining their craft and employing effective promotion strategies, artists can increase their chances of gaining the attention they deserve. Remember that every successful artist was once a newcomer, and their persistence and hard work ultimately paid off.

Importance of learning from successes and failures

As new artists navigate the world of music promotion, they will inevitably encounter both successes and failures. It is crucial for artists to view these experiences as valuable learning opportunities. Successes can help artists identify which strategies are working well for them, while failures can reveal areas that need improvement. By consistently analyzing their promotional efforts and adapting their strategies accordingly, artists can optimize their approach and enhance their chances of getting noticed by music blogs. Embracing a growth mindset and learning from both positive and negative experiences will help artists grow and develop in their careers.